How do I extend/merge two partitions on the same drive?

[oceanauk]

This problem is driving me nuts!!  I've looked all over internet for a solution so I'm hoping answerbank can help - usually does!!  Anyway, I have a laptop with a C drive divided into two partitions; the main C partition I use for everything & E, both have about 13GB of space but E volume is unused.  I want to move some of the hard drive from E to C but cannot do it.  Is this possible?  I also have another 5GB on the same C drive but it is "hidden" and is named as EIAS configuration.  I'm not too technical so if the above does make sense to anyone and they can put an answer to me in simple layman's terms I would be very grateful.  I am supposed to have 40GB of total hard drive space on this laptop but can only seem to find about 30 in total.  Again, would some be hidden?  Thanks in advance!  Jackie

[Potatoman]

http://www.powerquest.com/partitionmagic/ This does the job nicely. I use this all the time. You can get it from PCWorld, but your bound to find it cheaper on line.

[Ralph]

I second Potatoman's suggestion, excellent software. My suggestion would be to keep an eye on the CD they put on the front of PC mags because they frequently give away older versions of PartitionMagic which will do everything you want.

[oceanauk]

Thanks Potatoman and Ralph - I have seen some adverts for Partition Magic during my long internet searches!!!  I will give it a go.  Thanks again!